The Foreign Office is warning UK holidaymakers to take care in Greece after the deaths of two people this weekend. Two people have died in a large wildfire burning through forestland near a seaside resort in southern Greece, authorities said.
The fire service said about 350 firefighters, assisted by eight water-dropping aircraft, managed to bring the blaze under control near Xylokastro in the Peloponnese region. Half a dozen villages were ordered evacuated overnight as a precaution after the fire broke out on Sunday.
The flames were fanned on by very strong winds blowing through forests left tinder-dry by a warm spring and hot summer. Authorities said the two dead were believed to be local residents declared missing late on Sunday. No-one else is believed to be missing.
There were no immediate reports of burned homes in the affected area, some 93 miles south-west of Athens. Greece, like other southern European countries, is plagued by destructive wildfires every summer.
Over the past few months, authorities have had to cope with more than 4,500 wildfires.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office warning for Greece reads: “There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October. Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. The situation can change quickly.”
They add: “Causing a wildfire or a forest fire is a criminal offence in Greece – even if unintentional. If you see a fire, call the emergency services on 112.
“Be cautious if you are in or near an area affected by wildfires:
- follow @112Greece for official updates
- follow the guidance of the emergency services
- call the Greek emergency services on 112 if you are in immediate danger
- contact your airline or travel operator who can assist you with return travel to the UK”